CARDIN, HASTINGS STATEMENT ON DEATH OF POLISH PRESIDENT KACZYNSKI

WASHINGTON--U.S. Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) and Co-Chairman Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following joint statement upon news of the death of Polish President Lech Kaczynski.

“We were shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the plane crash that killed Polish President Lech Kaczynski, his wife Maria, and 94 other military, political, and civil society leaders as well as family members of those murdered in the Katyn massacre of 1940. Words alone do not adequately convey the depth of our sympathy before this catastrophic loss of life. We stand with the people of Poland, who have long stood by us, in this most painful moment. Our prayers and thoughts go out to the families and friends of all who lost their lives in this tragedy.

"President Kaczynski was a friend of the United States and a tireless advocate for freedom and human rights, including remembering the history of Polish Jews.

"This morning's tragedy is all the more devastating considering the delegation traveling with the president included so many people who have played inspiring roles in Poland's democratic reforms. The memory of President Kaczynski's life and his commitment to peaceful regional and international relations should serve as an inspiration to us all."